If you take a moment to really think about it, the diversity of our world, and its living things, is captivating. On the other hand, there are times when consistency is important.

I read about a legislator in West Virginia who is an outspoken critic of civil rights for LGBT people. He is quoted calling gay people a “terrorist group” and likens them to the KKK. Hate is never pretty. And the idea that “I’m okay, you’re not okay” is insidious.

It’s noteworthy that this legislator is blind. He’s also spoken about slurs that have been directed against him regarding his blindness. While we shouldn’t have to be part of a marginalized group to understand that marginalization is wrong, wouldn’t you think that this man’s membership in one would sensitize him to this issue?

I serve on a committee with a Muslim man. He has worked hard to effectively to raise our consciousness about unfounded bias and discrimination towards Muslims. However, this man is also disdainful of the LGBT community and would not grant it full inclusion in the human community.

I was raised by parents who looked down on anyone who was not white, Northern European, Protestant, and straight. They were horribly consistent. On the other hand, I do wonder how one can justify inclusion for some but not for all. I think it is disingenuous and duplicitous to approach inclusion in the human family buffet-style.